Experience Cochrane Located 36 km west of Calgary, Cochrane is an ideal getaway, be it for an afternoon adventure or a weekend camping. The town gets its name from Senator Matthew Cochrane, who established a ranch here in 1881. So, the town’s western roots run deep. This is cattle country, and it is home to both the Bert Sheppard Stockmen’s Foundation Library, and the Cochrane Ranche Historic Site. Full of western memorabilia, ask the staff about their 101 Hats Collection and the numerous examples of saddles, brands and barbed wire on display. Before World War I, Cochrane was home to a stone quarry, a saw mill, and four brick plants. Skilled artisans combined their talents to construct buildings of quality and style. Today, Cochrane is still noted for its artisans, western heritage, and its small-town hospitality. The Studio West Art Gallery & Bronze Foundry is a unique attraction. Don & Shirley Begg have operated this lost-wax bronze foundry since 1970, during which they have created dozens of public statues. Stop for a free tour of sculpting and see work in progress. They’re located on 2nd Ave East just two blocks south of Railway Street.
Tim Hall/ Cochrane Tourism Association
One of the big draws here is MacKay’s Ice Cream! They’ve been serving perhaps the best ice cream, frozen yogurt and sorbet in western Canada for the past 71 years. Some of their more innovative flavours include Purple Yam, Chai Tea, and Mayan Chocolate (with chili and cinnamon), although their best seller is Chocolate. What’s your favourite? In recent years, Cochrane has earned a glowing reputation as a centre of outdoor recreation for such activities as wind sports, paragliding, skydiving, water activities, golfing, hiking and cycling. If you crave water sports, the Ghost Reservoir is only 15 minutes west along the scenic Hwy 1A. Do you prefer rock climbing? Be sure to check out Mount John Laurie just 20 minutes west of the Ghost. And all along Hwy 1A, the birdwatching is terrific! There are numerous events throughout the year, such as Outhouse Races on Main Street during the Lions Labour Day Rodeo weekend. Come here and be prepared for a warm, western welcome. It’s a great place for those seeking rest and relaxation in a beautiful natural setting. Enjoy an easy hike at the Glenbow Ranch, or a round of golf at Glen Eagles and discover Cochrane’s many dining delights. Come make memories! 36 | Enter our Photo Contest
